From Kalamazoo-
The Rev. Jay R. Lawlor resigned Wednesday as pastor at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, three days after an elderly parishioner filed a police report accused him of assault, according to a letter received today by church members.
The letter from Bishop Robert Gepert, who heads the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan, said the church is launching its own investigation into the incident, which allegedly involved Lawlor shoving Marcia Morrison, 76.
Morrison was not injured, but told police she was emotionally traumatized.
"Regardless of what happened, and without laying blame, it does not reflect well on the whole community," said Gepert's letter. "As a result, I am obligated to initiate an investigation under Title IV of the Episcopal Church Canons. It also means I will begin searching for a priest-in-charge."
There have been tensions between Lawlor and the St. Luke's congregation since the priest started there as rector two years ago. Last week, Bishop Robert Gepert sent a letter to parishioners informing them that he was taking over the parish, disbanding its lay board and putting Lawlor on a fourth-month leave starting March 8.
Before he went on leave, Lawlor laid off terminated the employment of the parish secretary, music director and facilities manager.
More here-
http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2011/03/priest_accused_in_shoving_inci.html
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